Rufus Wayne Rutledge, 96 of Madison passed away Sunday, March 1, 2026, at Valley View Nursing and Rehab. He was born July 8, 1929, the son of Willie D. Rutledge and Julia Tabatha Light Rutledge. He was married to Ava Nell Collins Rutledge who passed away September 4, 2003.
He leaves behind his children: Sheila Lawynn Rutledge Marsh and her husband Gene Marsh, and Johnny Lee Rutledge. He was a proud grandfather to two grandchildren and a joyful great-grandfather to five great-grandchildren. Each new generation brought him pride, smiles, and a sense of fulfillment.
Visitation will be 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Wednesday at Gober Funeral Chapel. The graveside service will follow at 12:30 p.m. at Arab Memorial Cemetery with Gober Funeral Chapel directing.
Ninety-six years is more than a lifetime — it is a legacy. Though we will miss his voice and stories, we are thankful for the years we were given. Ninety-six years is a gift — and we are better because we shared in them.
